Cattle Chat: Parasite control strategies
K-State beef cattle experts discuss parasite control measures and how they are evolving
At a glance: K-State veterinarians say strategic parasite control is replacing blanket deworming to reduce drug resistance in cattle herds. Producers are encouraged to work with veterinarians to tailor treatment plans based on age, environment and herd conditions.
More information:
Todd Gunderson, 785-532-4478, Tggundy@vet.k-state.edu
Brad White, 785-532-4243, bwhite@vet.k-state.edu
Bob Larson, 785-532-4257, rlarson@vet-k-state.edu
Related: Beef Cattle Institute Cattle Chat podcast
Oct. 7, 2025
By Chevy-Lynn Vaske, K-State Research and Extension news service
MANHATTAN, Kan. – Cattle producers are rethinking traditional parasite control methods, shifting toward more strategic treatments to prevent drug resistance, Kansas State University beef cattle experts say.
“In the past, we would treat everybody, but now we understand that approach creates pressure to select for resistant populations of parasites,” K-State veterinarian Todd Gunderson said.
Experts recommend producers work closely with veterinarians to develop targeted parasite management plans. Factors such as animal age, geographic location and environmental conditions should play crucial roles in treatment decisions.
“Young animals are much more likely to benefit from deworming than older animals,” K-State veterinarian Bob Larson said. “Mature cattle have natural protections against parasites that younger animals do not.”
The new approach emphasizes selective treatment, avoiding blanket deworming strategies that can accelerate parasite resistance problems. Producers are encouraged to consider individual herd characteristics and consult professional veterinary guidance.
Parasite control remains critical for maintaining cattle health and productivity, with strategic interventions proving more successful than broad-spectrum approaches of the past, K-State experts said.
To learn more about this topic and others, listen to the most recent episode of the K-State BCI Cattle Chat Podcast.
***
K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county extension offices, experiment fields, area extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. For more information, visit www.ksre.ksu.edu. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.